Majority of Patients Want Ease, Convenience of Telehealth

Patients are craving easier and more convenient ways to access healthcare, and would prefer to turn to telehealth instead of a traditional office visit for a number of routine services, says a Harris Pollconducted in conjunction with American Well.  Whether it’s a prescription for an antibiotic or a consult for a feverish child in the middle of the night, remote care is gaining traction as 64% of patients now say they are willing to consider a video chat instead of a drive to their primary care provider.

EHR Intelligence

ATA Submits Suggestions to Bi-Partisan Congressional Initiative to Expand Telemedicine

The American Telemedicine Association (ATA) has been working with an important bi-partisan coalition that has a goal to bring “21st Century Cures” to the United States. In comments submitted earlier this week to the House Energy and Commerce Committee, ATA recommended that Congress take immediate action to improve coverage for telehealth services under Medicare payment innovations in a number of areas from fee-for-services to Accountable Care Organizations to bundled payment programs.

American TeleMedicine Association

General Wellness: Policy for Low Risk Devices; Draft Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug Administration Staff; Availability

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is announcing the availability of the draft guidance entitled “General Wellness: Policy for Low Risk Devices.” FDA is issuing this draft guidance to provide clarity to industry and FDA staff on the Center for Devices and Radiological Health’s (CDRH’s) compliance policy for low risk products that promote a healthy lifestyle (general wellness products). This draft guidance is not final nor is it in effect at this time.

FDA Register

DRAFT Policy

 

Telepsychiatry: the New Frontier in Mental Health

Like telemedicine, telepsychiatry relies on technology to bring clinical medicine to patients, rather than the other way around. Patients typically videoconference with doctors using computers or videoconferencing equipment. Telepsychiatric services are growing, and the advantage is that such technology opens access to care, particularly for those in remote areas where there are fewer psychiatrists.

 

US News